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CURRENT LEVELS OF PHYSICAL FITNESS IN THE CANADIAN FORCES

Physical fitness was assessed for 2624 men aged 18-49 years serving in almost every segment of the Canadian Forces (CF). Aerobic power (VO2 max) was predicted from heart rate measured during submaximal exercise and body composition was assessed by skinfold thickness measurements at three sites (triceps, subscapular and suprailiac). Officer cadets and infantry soldiers, aged 18-24 years, have a higher VO2 max and less body fat than the rest of the CF population who appear to be little different, in that respect, from the civilian population in Canada. Young officer cadets and infantry soldiers lead a much more active life than the rest of the CF who, like most members of a modern military force, largely have sedentary duties. In the absence of a job-related requirement, physical fitness becomes a personal responsibility. A new rationale, one which places more emphasis on physical fitness as part of a healthy lifestyle, is required in the modern CF.